Field of Dreams

The Stuart Raiders are hoping for their first winning season in 14 years. Helping lead the effort are Chris Ventura, whose family is Salvadoran, Falls Church native Jason Friday, and Tijani Musa from Sierra Leone.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

On the field.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

On the sidelines during a night game.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

The Raiders during practice at J.E.B. Stuart.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

During practice.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

Ferri’s drills build toughness, and football’s culture is new to a lot of the boys. Every year, players quit because they don’t understand why coaches yell at them.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

On the team are boys whose families are from Palestine, the Philippines, Morroco, Sudan, and beyond. Players speak Arabic, Spanish, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Urdu, Tagalog, and more. Says Coach Ferri: “You look around the locker room and think, wow, that’s wh

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

Heading out to the field for a game.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

On the sidelines during a night game.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

After going winless in 2006 and 2007, then finishing 1–9 last season, the Stuart Raiders celebrate a welcome victory.

Field of Dreams Photograph by Matthew Worden

Photos of Chris Ventura playing football hang in his family’s apartment. His mother, Ana, was born in El Salvador and was diagnosed with a brain tumor when Chris was eight. Chris helps his mom look after his younger brother, Carlos.